In The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt argues that the spread of smartphones, social media, and overprotective parenting has led to a “rewiring” of childhood and a rise in mental illness. My three takeaways from this book: kids need less screen time, they need to get outside, and they need time away from parents to explore. Those three things are camp! Screens, structured schedules, youth travel sports, social media, high academic expectations, and the highest historic rates of anxiety in children increasingly dominate this world.
Less Screen Time
Campers don’t have phones or computers - no screen time! Without their tech, kids engage more deeply with the people and world around them. They learn to be present without a screen.
Get Outside
Campers are constantly outside at New Life Ranch! In a time when many kids spend little time outdoors, camp not only benefits their physical health, but also promotes mindfulness of our amazing Creator.
Time Away from Parents
In a fun, safe, and loving environment away from their parents, campers have the opportunity to become more independent and develop responsibility in a low-risk setting.
This world is increasingly dominated by screens, structured schedules, youth travel sports, social media, high academic expectations, and the highest historic rates of anxiety in children. Overnight summer camp offers a refreshing and necessary escape for kids. Kids Need Camp! Camp is more than just a place to roast marshmallows and play games - overnight camp is an immersive experience that can foster independence, social development, confidence, and grit, as well as spiritual transformation.
For parents wondering whether it’s worth sending your children away for a week of summer camp, the benefits of overnight camp really make a compelling case. Campers have the opportunity to develop independence and responsibility, build social skills and friendships, gain confidence through new experiences, disconnect from technology, foster a love for creation, grow in resilience and adaptability, create lifelong memories, and have focused time in the Bible with peers and great counselors.
Obviously, I believe in camp and think that your kid should come for a week or two each summer. Don’t just listen to me, though, hear from this camper’s parent too:
“He attended camp previously and came home completely lit up with joy, confidence, and a renewed excitement for his faith. The experience made a lasting impression on him—not just because of the fun and adventure, but because of the spiritual growth and meaningful connections he made with both peers and leaders. He still talks about the worship nights, the devotions, and the lessons he learned that helped him draw closer to God. As a parent, it was a blessing to see how much the camp environment nurtured his heart and character. I could see the impact it had on his attitude, his prayers, and the way he interacted with others. I’m incredibly thankful for a place like New Life Ranch - a place where kids are not only safe and active, but spiritually poured into.”
I hope to see you at check-in summer 2026, because now more than ever, kids truly need camp. :)
